Stewart Mountain Community Forest (SMCF) is a collaborative effort led by Whatcom Land Trust, the Nooksack Indian Tribe, Whatcom County and Evergreen Land Trust to bring 5,500 acres of forestland into local ownership so it can be managed for the benefit of the local community. On January 9th, 2026, SMCF protected an additional 1,616 acres of forestland above the South Fork Nooksack River near Acme, WA. Combined with the October 2022 purchase of 550 acres, the 2,166-acre forest will protect water resources and biodiversity, offsetting climate change impacts for future generations. The goals of the Community Forest are to (1) Enhance watershed health and improve water quality and quantity, (2) Promote an ecological forestry-based economy for living-wage jobs, (3) Increase biodiversity and enhance fish and wildlife habitat, and (4) Expand community access for cultural uses and non-motorized recreation.
Through 2021-2023, through interviews, a community advisory team, forums, and a community survey, a Strategic Vision Framework was created to define the purpose of the Stewart Mountain Community Forest, and to help guide future decisions for how the forest will be managed. Click on the image below to read the plan!
